Why Is My Electricity Bill So High in the Summer? (2024)

FAQs

Why Is My Electricity Bill So High in the Summer? ›

In many areas, summer signals higher energy demand, causing the market price to increase. If you are on a variable-rate plan, you may see your energy rate increase this season. Even on a fixed-rate plan, you may see increased electricity rates if you've switched or renewed electricity plans in the last year.

Summer electricity consumption largely depends on the weather. Households in most regions of the United States consume more electricity in the summer than in other months because nearly 90% of U.S. households cool their homes with air conditioning.

Heating and cooling are by far the greatest energy users in the home, making up around 40% of your electric bill. Other big users are washers, dryers, ovens, and stoves.

Though typically averaging $134.38 per month based on spring and autumn averages, the state's summer expenses will total $234.53, marking the highest electricity bill among all U.S. states during this summer. *Amount based on average bill calculated from 2024 Spring and Autumn rates.

The most common reasons for a big jump in your electric bill include changes in your lifestyle, increased usage of energy-hungry appliances, and sudden weather changes.

The amount of energy you use in a month affects your electric bill, and winter is typically a time when electricity usage is higher. Following are some reasons we use more electricity in the winter: People spend more time in their homes during the colder months.

What wastes the most electricity in a house? ›

In short, the more electricity people demand, the higher the prices of supplying that electricity. And since people demand more electricity to combat the hot summer weather, electricity prices will be higher in the summer because the very high costs of generating electricity when demand threatens to outpace supply.

Georgia Power customers are also seeing higher bills as Summer 2024 has had record highs. Echols say once summer rates end, customers can see a drop in their bills. Increases to electricity bills stem from the price of natural gas increasing for the United States. Echols says relief is around the corner.

The average electric bill in Arizona during the summer season lies between $200 and $250, which is higher than the average residential bill of $147.70.

Rising population

Population growth creates an increased demand for energy. Since 1950 the world's population has increased dramatically, leading to the growth in demand for energy. The overwhelming majority of this growth has been in LICs and NEEs, where there are already energy deficits.

Increased Runtime: During heatwaves, AC units run for extended periods, consuming more electricity to maintain the desired indoor temperature. This prolonged operation is a primary driver of higher energy bills. Strain on Electrical System: The constant demand for cooling can strain your home's electrical system.

San Francisco is a winter-peaking region, meaning, energy usage is highest in the winter months compared to any other time of year. This increased energy use can contribute to higher bills in the winter months.